Breadwinner
CASOON
Breadwinner, a crusty baguette wearing a dark pinstripe tie, standing beside a worn brown leather briefcase

First shift, same cheap crooked tie.

Breadwinner

He brings home the bread because he is, inconveniently, the breadwinner.

Breadwinner waiting at a misty bus shelter at dawn, beside a bench, a radiator, a paper lunch bag and his briefcase

The Early Shift

At 6:10, he waits by the depot heater, briefcase shut, lunch packed, and the family grocery list folded behind the brass clasp. Nobody asks why a loaf carries sandwiches; everyone needs the bus. The route has not changed in years.Never Late He arrives before the office lights, then leaves after the cleaning cart reaches his floor.Packed Lunch One heel, two receipts, a boiled egg, and tomorrow’s bus fare stay inside the case.Family First Every errand ends with milk, soap, or something useful carried through the apartment door.

What It Pays

He calls it salary; the family calls it one more steady week.
Breadwinner

Dinner waits for the loaf who clocks in.